Melbourne, Australia – March 2025 – The world of action cinema and martial arts has lost a true icon. Richard Norton, renowned Australian martial artist, actor, and Hollywood fight choreographer, has passed away at the age of 75. His death was confirmed by his wife, Judy Green, who shared the heartbreaking news on social media.
Norton, who began his career as a martial arts champion, rose to fame in the 1980s and ‘90s, starring alongside legends like Chuck Norris, Cynthia Rothrock, and Jackie Chan. With more than 80 screen credits to his name and decades of behind-the-scenes work in blockbuster films, Norton leaves behind a powerful legacy in both film and martial arts.
🎬 From Dojos to Hollywood: A Storied Career
Born in Melbourne in 1950, Richard Norton began studying martial arts as a teenager and quickly made a name for himself in the international karate scene. His skills caught the attention of music and movie stars, leading him to work as a bodyguard for celebrities like The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, and Fleetwood Mac.
His transition to acting came naturally. Norton’s breakout role was in The Octagon (1980), starring opposite Chuck Norris. Audiences quickly recognized his on-screen charisma and real-life martial arts expertise. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Norton appeared in dozens of cult-favorite action films, many of them produced in Hong Kong and Hollywood.
Some of his most beloved films include:
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China O’Brien (1990)
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Rage and Honor (1992)
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Mr. Nice Guy (1997, with Jackie Chan)
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Under the Gun (1995)
🎥 A Master Behind the Scenes
Even after stepping back from leading roles, Norton remained highly active in the film industry as a fight choreographer and stunt coordinator. He worked on some of Hollywood’s biggest hits, including:
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Mad Max: Fury Road
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Suicide Squad
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X-Men: Dark Phoenix
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Ghost in the Shell (with Scarlett Johansson)
He was widely respected for his ability to blend cinematic style with realistic combat, often training actors personally to perform their own stunts. Norton also mentored a generation of martial artists and film professionals.
🙏 Tributes Pour In
Following the news of his passing, tributes flooded social media. Fellow actor Robert Patrick (Terminator 2) called him “a class act and true warrior.” Fans remembered Norton not only for his powerful fight scenes, but also for his gentle demeanor, humility, and passion for martial arts education.
His wife, Judy, wrote:
“Richard touched so many lives through his films, his discipline, and his kindness. He was my hero in every sense.”
🧠 More Than an Action Star
To many fans, Norton was more than just an action hero — he was a symbol of dedication, physical discipline, and quiet strength. Unlike many stars of his era, Norton never courted controversy and maintained a positive image throughout his decades-long career.
He also remained active in the martial arts community, teaching and traveling internationally well into his 70s.
📌 A Legacy That Endures
Richard Norton’s influence is woven into the very fabric of action cinema — from gritty 80s classics to modern superhero blockbusters. As fans around the world mourn his passing, his work continues to inspire new generations of fighters, actors, and fans.
He is survived by his wife Judy, extended family, and a global community of martial arts practitioners who saw him as a pioneer and mentor.
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